You can make this versatile spice blend with a few readily available warm spices and a mixing bowl. It's easily customizable to suit your taste buds and keeps well for months. Good for any sweet pumpkin recipe you bake and some savory ones. I haven't used a purchased mix in years, and now my Fall baking tastes exactly like I want it to!
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Exactly how you want it
Ever wondered what makes that slice of pumpkin pie or that favorite pumpkin cake taste so irresistible? It's the magic of pumpkin pie spice mix, a humble combination of basic spices that adds that old-fashioned fall flavor to your favorite recipes with pumpkin.
Just like the apple pie spice blend for seasonal apples, this recipe is a must for pumpkin season.
The recipe below is my favorite pumpkin spice mix recipe due to the ratio of the ingredients; I use it for everything. But use it as a guide and adjust to your liking.
If, for example, you're not a big fan of cloves (like me, except in gingerbread), don't use them for this. But know that you can if you feel no pumpkin bake is complete without it.
Fresher ingredients: especially if you make it regularly. And it's guaranteed to be free of additives or preservatives. It beats store-bought pumpkin pie spice any day if you ask me.
Common spices: it uses easy ingredients, pantry staples that are readily available in the spice aisle at the grocery store. And it's cost-effective.
Adapted to your palate.
Versatility: use it for any pumpkin bake (pies, cookies, cakes, pancakes, etc.) and also for some spiced savory dishes like pumpkin soup.
The essential spices are typically cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and allspice, with cloves being a necessary addition for many people. Variations can be created by adding other spices like cardamom or star anise.
What's the shelf life of homemade pumpkin spice?
Properly stored in an airtight container away from light and heat, homemade spice mix can maintain its flavor for about 6 months. After this time, the spices may lose some potency. Always check before using it.
Paula's tip
While making a larger batch can be convenient for future use and may save time and effort in the long run, it makes sense if you know you'll be using it. Otherwise, it will lose strength and flavor before you can finish it. Ensure you store it properly to maintain its freshness.
Ingredients
Uses for pumpkin spice mix
If you wonder about the versatility of pumpkin pie spice mix, it can be used in a wide range of dishes, sweet and savory.
How to Make Homemade Pumpkin Spice Mix
It's so easy to make a homemade spice blend. It's just a matter of combining individual spices in the right proportions.
And that's the only detail: what amount of each should you use? Start with the ones in the recipe card below, and adjust if needed to fit your palate.
Storing spice mixes
- Use an airtight container: mason jars, small spice jars, or containers with tight-sealing lids work well. Making sure there is minimal air inside the container prevents moisture and air from degrading the spices.
- Label: write the date you made the spice mix. This helps you keep track of its freshness.
- Store in a cool, dark place: keep the spice mix in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. A pantry, spice cabinet or cupboard is an ideal location.
- Avoid refrigeration: keeping them in the fridge is not recommended for spice mixes as it can introduce moisture and cause clumping. Spices should remain dry.
- Check for freshness: spice blends can lose their potency over time. While they might not be spoiled, they may be less flavorful. Consider making a fresh batch if you've stored the mix for over a year. Smell the spices before using them.
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Homemade Pumpkin Spice Mix (5-minute recipe)
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- pinch of ground cloves, optional
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix 4 tablespoons ground cinnamon, 2 tablespoons ground ginger, 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1 teaspoon ground allspice, and a pinch of ground cloves, if using (I don't), until no streaks remain. It might take a bit for the cinnamon to fully integrate.
- Transfer to an airtight jar, label it and store it in the pantry, cupboard or other cool, dry, dark place. It keeps for 6 months or more.
- Use it for your favorite pumpkin spice recipes.
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